Pikes Peak Marathon Training Plan: 20 Weeks, Intermediate, Running Power
Prepare specifically for the Pikes Peak Marathon with a structured 20-week running power training plan for established trail runners who want a strong performance. It develops threshold, climbing strength, downhill durability and race-specific endurance for the demands of the Pikes Peak course.
The Race
42.2 km (26.2 mi) out and back from Manitou Springs to the summit of Pikes Peak (4,302 m), about 2,380 m (7,800 ft) up and down. Cutoffs at Barr Camp, A-Frame and the summit. Barr Trail on decomposed granite and loose gravel: a long climb above treeline, then a fast, relentless 21 km descent.
Who It Is For
You run 4-5 times a week (about 5-6 h), have finished a trail 30K-50K, and run 90 min long runs.
Your 20 Weeks
- Phases: Preparation week 1, Base weeks 2-7, Build weeks 8-13, Specific weeks 14-18, Taper week 19, race week 20.
- Weekly: 5 runs and 2 strength sessions, about 5.5 h rising to 9.7 h of running.
- Long runs: 1h30 to 4h15, with back-to-back runs up to 1h45.
- Climbing: about 1200 m rising to 3150 m a week (the course averages 56.4 m per km).
- Race-specific: long climb repeats, uphill threshold, heavy downhill durability, altitude guidance, a dress rehearsal.
- Strength: two RunForce 45-min sessions built in the TrainingPeaks Strength Builder (A: Force & Posterior Chain; B: Single-Leg & Mountain Durability), with a demonstration video for every exercise.
Running Power Training
Every run is prescribed as % of your Critical Power, with a CP test in week 1 and retests later. Power guides climbs, threshold and interval work precisely; workouts explain when power is less useful (steep descents, very technical ground). Works with Stryd, COROS and Garmin power.
Also Available
This plan is also available in Beginner Heart Rate, Intermediate Heart Rate versions. Other Pikes Peak plans: Ascent. Search "RunForce Pikes Peak" in the TrainingPeaks store.
Your Coach: Adrien Thévenet
Endurance coach since 2011, working with elite athletes, professional endurance athletes, major race winners, and a Spartan National Champion across road, trail, and mountain running.
RunForce is independent and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pikes Peak Marathon and Ascent. The race name is used only to identify the event this plan prepares you for.
Certifications:
-25 Years of Endurance Sports Experience
-TrainingPeaks Level 2
-UESCA Ultrarunning
-RRCA Certified
-STRYD Power Coach
-ACE Certified
With 25 years in endurance sports, I offer tailored coaching for diverse runners - from beginners to sub 3-hour marathoners. Emphasizing well-being, we collaborate on a program that fits your life keeping you motivated.